Sheila Tracy LOI — File 23-1769

I am writing to express my interest in becoming a member of the Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities. As a family member of a person with disabilities, who requires the use of a wheel chair, I have spent much of my life witnessing and experiencing the difficulties that such individuals face when adequate access is not available. Access that would give persons with disabilities the ability to fully partake in community events, use public transportation, etc... As a life long Somerville resident, I have been involved in our community, and have worked with various groups that service persons with disabilities, I was also a founding member of the "Somerville Olympics" (Special Olympics). I have previously served as the City's Treasurer for nearly a decade, which gives me an understanding of the workings of Municipal Government. In recent years, I have witnessed changes in our City that, rather making access more readily available, has actually limited access. I trust that the Commission is an entity that will continually work toward, and advocate for, access for all residents, employees, workers, and visitors to our City. I have these same interests, and for that reason, I ask that you consider me for a position on the Commission. Thank you, Sheila Tracy